Piperazine

Chemical group: Piperazine

Trade names: Pipa-tabs, Tasty Paste, WRM Rid, etc.

Mode of action: GABA agonist, causes hyperpolarization of nerve membrane and flaccid paralysis of the nematode, worms are removed by normal peristalsis.

Pharmacokinetics: Rapidly absorbed from the gut and excreted in the urine. Elimination is virtually complete by 24 hours.

Dose: About 60 mg/kg of piperazine base, actual dose varies with the salt. (100 mg/kg of piperazine adipate) (PO). Use in animals over 6 weeks of age.

Toxicity: Acute oral: About 800 mg/kg. Signs: Depression, hind leg weakness or incoordination.    Side effects apparently common in cats and dogs. Will kill microfilaria, therefore not safe to use  in microfilaria positive dogs.

Parasite Targets: Toxocara spp., Toxascaris leonina

© University of Pennsylvania  2004

Comments or Questions please contact:  Dr. Nolan at: